Polygamy here to stay, say Muslim leaders

A SMALL number of Victorian Muslims are living in polygamist relationships but shouldn't be seen as a threat to Australia's way of life, Islamic community members say.

Some Muslim men, mainly from Sudan, Jordan or Egypt, have immigrated with two or more wives, but their multiple marriages are not recognised by Australian law.

A handful have also been known to approach local imams seeking permission for a second marriage, but are generally told polygamy is illegal.